Hello Friends and Family and Interested Persons (and those who are all three!)

Hello Friends and Family and Interested Persons (and those who are all three!)

Today, I am full of thanks.

First, "thanks you" does not come close to the gratitude I have for Jeri in my life. Still, even thought something is obvious, this does not mean it should be unsaid. Jeri has been willing to put her own life on hold, at a particularly precious time for her, in order to devote herself to caring for me. Words fail and I can only hope that the intent is felt.

Next, a big "thank you" to Melissa who has done such a great job with this blog. Melissa is the hereto-unsung hero of my recovery.

Third, another "thank you" to all who have wished me well, made me laugh, included me in your prayers, baked me cookies, cooked us dinner, or simply sent warm healing thoughts my way. All of these have helped me heal and made me feel humble and grateful.

Fourth, a big thanks to the team back at work who have kept me free from "work stress" and especially to Joe who has attended some "fun" meetings on my behalf. A big thanks to my boss, Carol Griffin, who has been an unfailing support throughout this "process." Finally, a big thanks to the entire University of Alaska community who have extended their patience and good-will to me.

All-in-all, I remain thankful that my problems are so minor. This has been one of the most disruptive events of my life. However, I have not lost sight of the fact that it is only pain, and my prognosis for recovery has always been excellent. Not everyone is so fortunate right now.

The road to recovery is two-fold. I need to heal from the surgery and I also need to heal the nerve damage that I've sustained. Neither should be horrid... The surgical healing should be pretty-much complete in a few weeks (just no heavy-anything so I don't re-injure). The nerve healing will be several months (nerves are finicky).

Cheers and best wishes to all,

- Michael